Friday, May 11, 2012

I'm All Ears, Honey

"Scooter, turn the volume down."

"I can't!"

"Why not?"

"Because this cereal."

"What?"

"This cereal is too loud. It makes it hard to hear!"

Alrighty then. This I can understand. Even we mere mortals with typical sensory processing can relate. Funny how he appears deaf when I call out to him at times, lost in his own world. Strange how he talks so loudly that everyone turns to stare, yet crunchy cereal chewing overtakes his ability to hear Spongebob 5 feet away.

Scooter's sensory issues are a moving target. I never know how he'll react. Even if I followed him around with a notebook - which I do in my head anyway - I'd never discover a pattern, be able to predict his needs. Just when I think I've got him figured out, he switches it up on me.

Scooter was truly bestowed upon me to keep me on my toes. I love to dance to a funky beat; but I'd love to be able to choose my own songs, tempo, bass, treble, balance.
Volume. Pitch. Harmony.

My senses are hyper-focused on your every move, kiddo.
Sensory Assimilation.

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Easy Cheesy

See recipes below...

"I can't find the Sprinkle Cheese!"

Hmmmm...search...translate

Our newly dubbed Sprinkle Cheese

"Ohhhhhhh!
You mean the co-jack, orange and white cheese? We don't have any."

Rooting around the fridge, I found his absolute fave smoked gouda.

We fight over this in our home.
Thank goodness for
Costco-sized hunks of this delicacy.

"Mom, you're a genius!"

Wow, that was easy!

Today is going to be a great day. :~D

Rainbow cake recipes - I just may have to make these!
http://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/2010/03/because-life-isnt-always-rainbows-and.html

http://iheartcuppycakes.com/2009/04/12/taste-the-rainbow/

Rainbow cake in a jar - awesome teacher/therapist gift!
http://www.hawaiikawaii.net/2012/rainbow-cake-in-a-jar-kawaii-cakes/

Monday, May 7, 2012

Superpowers, Defined

Read this heartwarming post from a gem of a little sister.
My Brother Has Real Superpowers | hereirawr
I've shared books, classes, support groups and constant reminders with my older children in helping them to understand and cope with their little brother's autism (etc.). I know I'll share this post too. I've recently begun searching for just the right book to open the door of awareness and hope for my special Scooter. I don't think he has awareness yet of his differences, despite my openness and many attempts to explain his autism to him both casually and formally. I think the visual and tactile sensory input from a book, app, or video may help him to "see" himself.
I'd love suggestions on methodology or recommendations on books or other media. He needs to be aware before first grade. It will be my goal for the summer. He needs to know that he is not alone in his struggles, differences,and above all- superpowers.